The local NHS in Kirklees is reminding people of some tips to help them stay well over the Christmas and New Year period.

If you have a repeat prescription, please check that you have enough to last over the days that your GP practice is closed. That way you don’t risk getting ill if you run out or have to take up an out-of-hours GP’s time to issue another prescription. Remember that you can now renew your prescriptions without having to telephone or visit the practice. You can order your medication at a time to suit you via your computer, smartphone or tablet when you register for GP online services. Ask your GP practice for further details.

The cold weather sees a rise across Kirklees in health problems such as coughs, colds and flu.

Dr David Kelly, local GP and Chair of NHS North Kirklees Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “Many of us will get a cold over the winter as the virus spreads very easily. Colds are spread by germs from coughs and sneezes which can live on hands and surfaces for 24 hours.

Cold symptoms are usually at their worst during the first two to three days, this is when you are likely to spread the virus. A cough in particular can last for two or three weeks.”

Cllr Musarrat Khan, Cabinet Member, Health and Social Care, Kirklees Council said: “There are some easy things you can do to help prevent you getting a cold.

“These include washing your hands regularly, not sharing towels and household items like cups with someone who has a cold and avoid touching your eyes or nose in case you have come into contact with the virus.

“The catch it, bin it, kill it method will make a huge difference in the fight against the spread of common colds and the more serious flu virus:

CATCH IT – Always carry tissues and use them to cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze

BIN IT – Dispose of used tissues as soon as possible

KILL IT – Clean your hands with soap and warm water as soon as you can and make sure you wash them frequently.

“Following these steps will also help prevent the spread of flu, which is much more serious.”

An easy way to also prevent the spread of flu is to also get the flu vaccination. People aged over 65 years, children aged from two years and up to school year five, pregnant women, anyone who is the main carer for another person or who is in receipt of carer’s allowance and those with long-term health conditions such as diabetes and asthma are eligible for a free flu jab this year.

Dr Steve Ollerton, local GP and Chair of NHS Greater Huddersfield CCG said “GPs don’t recommend antibiotics for colds because they won’t relieve your symptoms or speed up your recovery.

Colds are self-limiting illnesses which means that given enough time you will recover without needing to receive medical treatment.”

Should you develop a cold (or even flu), there are a few ways you can help yourself feel better more quickly, including making sure you:

Rest and sleep

Keep warm

Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower your temperature and treat aches and pains

Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

A pharmacist can also provide treatment, advice and recommend flu and cold remedies.

Bank holiday pharmacy opening information, and winter health advice, can be found at the following links: